An aircraft weight 12,500 pounds or less with propeller-driven twin engines is considered which category?

• A. CAT I
• B. CAT III
• C. CAT II
• D. CAT IIIC

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is how aircraft are grouped for instrument approach minimums based on weight and engine configuration. When an airplane weighs 12,500 pounds or less and is powered by two propeller-driven engines, it falls into Category II. This category designation reflects the level of precision approach capability and the associated minimums that apply to aircraft in this weight/engine class. Cat II sits between Cat I (less capable) and Cat III (more capable, with lower or zero visibility minima and often autoland capability). The specific weight and twin-engine combination is the criterion that places this aircraft in Category II, rather than Cat I, Cat III, or Cat IIIC.